asked the Minister for Justice his proposals to enforce the law effectively in respect of dog licences.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Written Answers. - Dog Licences.
229.
I have been informed by the Garda Authorities that, having regard to Garda strength and the many demands being made on the force, it has not been possible in recent years to devote as much attention to the enforcement of the law in regard to dog licensing as in earlier years. Accordingly, there has been an overall drop over the past few years in the number of prosecutions although as between 1980 and 1981 there was, in fact, a slight increase, the figure being 516 in 1980 and 565 in 1981. Against this background the Garda Authorities issued a special instruction to the Force earlier this year directing that members should by prosecutions, reminders and warnings endeavour to secure observance of the law in this matter.